Mourners pay tribute to Doncaster’s ‘Mr Badminton’

Steve Hossack

The Doncaster badminton fraternity turned out in force yesterday to mark the passing of Brian Keefe.

He remained a legendary figure within the sport following his retirement from playing and coached hundreds of local youngsters.

Brian was a stalwart of the Pilkington's club and as well as playing for the men's, mixed and combined team he also held down key official posts such as chairman, treasurer and secretary over the years.

Brian, who died late last month following a heart attack, played for Yorkshire for nearly 30 years.

He made his debut in 1952 and by the time he decided to step down in 1980, he had amassed a record 144 caps.

His record stood until 2004.

Brian captained the Yorkshire team for many years as he did the Doncaster Town first team in the Yorkshire Inter-Town League.